A BID for a retrospective caravan park permit has been rejected by Loddon Shire councillors.
North Central Catchment Management Authority and one neighbour objected to the application for farming zone land on the Loddon River at Bridgewater.
The original permit for relocation of shed in April had been amended after council queries about five cabins already on the land.
A caravan port and canopy had been constructed between the cabins and the river. 
Planning officer Darcy Jackson told councillors on Tuesday: “When the application was lodged, officers questioned the legalities of the existing cabins and caravan located on the land, as there were no records of any approvals for this development and use. As a result, the application has been amended to include the existing use and development of the land for camping and caravan park.
“The proposal is not consistent with the purpose of the farming zone and the land subject to inundation and the relevant decision guidelines. The proposal is not considered to be in accordance with planning policy.
“The application does not increase or support agricultural output of the site and the proposal is considered to result in a permanent land use change. The proposal will also increase the risk to life, health, and safety due to the significant flood risk to the site and the proximity of the development to the river. Further development of this site is likely to further obstruct flood flows and reduce natural flood storage, as well as increase the number of buildings within the floodplain.”
Cr Gavan Holt said the applicant would have opportunity to pursue the matter “and to meet compliance requirements”.
Officers had outlined good reasons to reject the application, Cr Holt said.